Morte do Leiteiro

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem "Morte do Leiteiro" ("Death of the Milkman") is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of innocence, societal paranoia, and the tragic consequences of misunderstanding. The poem begins by highlighting the scarcity of milk in the country and the urgency with which it must be delivered. The milkman, a young and diligent worker, rises early to distribute milk to the city's residents, symbolizing purity and sustenance in a society fraught with challenges.

The milkman's routine is depicted with a sense of quiet dedication. He moves silently through the streets, careful not to disturb the sleeping city. His actions are driven by a simple yet profound purpose: to provide nourishment to the people. However, this serene image is shattered by the pervasive fear of crime. The poem reflects a societal belief that thieves are dealt with through violence, a belief that ultimately leads to the milkman's tragic fate.

In a moment of panic, a resident mistakes the milkman for a thief and shoots him. The poem poignantly captures the aftermath of this fatal error, as the resident grapples with the realization that he has killed an innocent man. The imagery of the shattered milk bottle and the mingling of milk and blood on the ground serves as a powerful metaphor for the loss of innocence and the senselessness of the act. The poem concludes with the dawn breaking, symbolizing a new day that arrives too late for the milkman, whose life was unjustly taken.

Drummond de Andrade's work is a profound commentary on the human condition, exploring themes of fear, innocence, and the tragic consequences of misunderstanding. The milkman, a symbol of purity and dedication, becomes a victim of a society's paranoia, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in a world often quick to judge and condemn.